EU social fund could lose focus, Balearic MEP warns

Funding for inclusive jobs and disability support is at the centre of a fight over the EU social fund: Balearic MEP Rosa Estaràs warns on Thursday, 1 October, that a proposed budget overhaul could blur its purpose. The People’s Party politician makes the case in the European Parliament’s Committee on Employment and Social Affairs. She wants the European Social Fund to remain a separate fund, with clearly marked money for social goals in the 2028–2034 EU budget.

The fund supports inclusive employment, skills training and social inclusion programmes, with particular attention to people with disabilities, Estaràs says. She warns that the European Commission’s proposed changes to EU funding could weaken that focus. The People’s Party says the committee is working on a position that would keep the fund separate and set aside money for priorities including social inclusion. The party’s statement does not say whether existing programmes would be affected.

Estaràs also wants regions, including the Balearic Islands, to keep a role in planning and delivering the funding. Spanish MP Irene Garrido backs that call and warns against judging support only by quick results. For someone facing severe exclusion, she says, rebuilding routines or staying in training can already be progress. She argues that tying funding too closely to fast outcomes could hurt people who need help for longer.

Topics: Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com